20000118

Govt to protect

interests of

foreign investors,

says Usman

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Petroleum and Natural Resources, Usman Aminuddin said the government will ensure consistency in its policies to safeguard and protect the interests of foreign investors in Pakistan.

This assurance was given by him during a meeting with US delegation which called on him on Monday led by Senator Samuel Brownback, chairman of the sub-committee on Near East and South Asia of the US Senate foreign relations committee.

Usman discussed with the US delegation matters relating to mutual interest with particular reference to the oil and gas sector in Pakistan.

The minister also apprised the delegation of the highest priority attached by the government of Pakistan to encourage foreign investment in all sectors of the economy particularly in the oil and gas sector.

The delegation was informed that concrete steps in this regard are being taken on a fast track basis including deregulation and privatisation to improve and stimulate the economy.

Senator Samuel expressed his confidence in the policies being indroduced by the government and forward looking project of the country and was hopeful of maximum investment and participation of US companies in the oil and gas sector.

The meeting was also attended by US ambassador to Pakistan William B Milam and senior officials of the ministry of petroleum and natural resources.ÑAPP